In 2000, Dave Matthews (of the Dave Matthews Band) and his family purchased some Piedmont region farmland. His original purpose was to preserve its historic significance (it was once the home of Secretary of Virginia Colony John Carter and housed a Revolutionary War prisoner, British General Wiliam Philips). But Matthews later decided to also plant some grape vines, and thus, a popular Charlottesville vineyard was born. More than 10 years later, travelers like visiting Blenheim Vineyards for its history, its picturesque surroundings and its novelty.

Blenheim's winemaker and manager, Kirsty Harmon, is almost universally described as welcoming and polite. And the wines receive passable remarks. "We had a great time and like our lovely souvenir wine glasses. Our fave was the viognier," notes one on TripAdvisor. Another elaborates: "Wonderful viognier & chard, the petit verdot is interesting, the meritage an unrivaled bargain & painted red v. special." There is the odd complaint, such as from this Yelp.com user, who says, "They have a neat building and a beautiful view, so at the very least you will have a nice time tasting wine you don't like."

The vineyard is about a 30-minute drive south from the main Charlottesville area. It's open every day from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tastings cost $5 per person. Visit Blenheim's website for more information.